Inviting someone to join a Dear Food Bible study group can be a bit delicate and even scary at times. Your goal is to be kind, helpful and welcoming, but knowing exactly how to introduce the topic may leave you silent and even fearful of offending your friend. I’ve faced this challenge myself and (from experience) here are ten ways to extend an invitation with respect and genuine care.
- Focus on Common Ground
Start by finding common ground. Maybe you both enjoy cooking or often discuss health and life. Use this as a bridge to talk about how the Dear Food community group has positively impacted your relationship with food and faith.
Sample Starter Question: “Hey, we’re always talking about eating healthier, right? I’m thinking of starting a group using a book that has really been helping me. Does this interest you?”
- Share Your Own Story
People feel more comfortable when they know they’re not alone. Lead with your own struggles and how being part of a faith-based group has helped you. This way, it’s about sharing solutions, not pointing out problems.
Sample Starter Question: “I recently started this book that incorporates food and faith, and it’s really changing the way I approach eating. I’m thinking of starting a Bible study using the book. Does that interest you?”
- Focus on the Benefits
Talk about the benefits of the group and avoid sensitive topics like weight or eating habits. Highlight the community aspect, the shared learning, and the spiritual growth.
Sample Starter Question: “I found this book that’s really great for growing friendships and strengthening our faith. The focus is food, but it’s helped me a lot in other ways as well. Do you think this is something you might like to be a part of with me?”
- Casual Invitation
Drop a casual invitation. Explain that it’s a simple, easy-going group with no pressure to stay if it’s not a good fit.
Sample Starter Question: “Hey, I’m thinking of getting some friends together for a group meeting about food and faith. It’s really laid back and I always feel uplifted after I do a session. Want to come along and see if you like it?”
- Emphasize the Spiritual Journey
If they’re open about their faith, emphasize how the group helps members strengthen their relationship with Jesus in the context of everyday challenges how life can affect food choices.
Sample Starter Question: “You’ve mentioned wanting to deepen your faith, right? There’s this group I’m starting that aligns with faith and our relationship with food. Interested in joining me for a session?”
- Start With an Open Event
Consider having your first meeting at a coffee shop where members can meet up and decide if they feel comfortable in the group without any commitment. It’s a care-free way to introduce the group and its members.
Sample Starter Question: “I’m starting a Dear Food group and people thinking about joining are meeting up for coffee at (name the location and time). It’s a great way to get out for a social night and decide if this might be something you’d enjoy doing. Want to come with me?”
- Talk About the Community Aspect
Focus on the community and support aspects. Mention how everyone encourages each other and how it’s more about growing together than anything else.
Sample Starter Question: “I really love the community feel of this Biblically-based food group I’m in. Everyone is so supportive. Would you be open to trying it out?”
- Ask for Their Opinion
Most people love to sharing what they think about things. Frame your invitation as seeking their opinion. When you choose this route, honestly be asking for their take on the subject. Listen to what they have to say and for signs they might be interested in talking more or joining the group.
Sample Starter Question: “I found this book that focuses on the Bible, food and faith, and I think it’s pretty cool. I’m thinking of starting a group. Could you check it out and tell me what you think?”
- Make It About Learning Together
Suggest that you both could learn something new by attending. Position it as an opportunity for both of you to gain new insights into health and spirituality.
Sample Starter Question: “I found this group that discusses food and spirituality, and I feel like there’s so much more to learn about how to eat healthy in real life. Want to join me and maybe we can pick up some new ideas together?”
- Just Ask
Sometimes, the best approach is the simplest. Just ask if they’re interested in a group that discusses faith and food, making sure to highlight that there’s no pressure to join.
Sample Starter Question: “I’m going to start a Bible study group that discusses how food relates to our spiritual lives. It’s really thought-provoking. Would you be interested in doing it with me?”
Conclusion
Inviting a friend to join the Dear Food group can be really rewarding for both of you. Share the good stuff about the group—like how supportive everyone is and the meaningful ways it’s helped you grow. Remember, there’s no pressure for them to decide right away. Just listen to their response, be genuine, and respect their decision. Some might say no, and that’s totally okay. You’re looking for the friends who need this in their lives, who are eager to say yes. Lead with a kind heart, and you’ll find that inviting your friends can make your journey more meaningful and your friendships even stronger.
🎉 Julia
Are you trapped in the cycle of overeating, emotional eating, or food addiction? Do you long for lasting weight loss, freedom from food struggles, and a healthy relationship with eating—rooted in faith?
Begin your breakthrough today with Dear Food, I Love You. I Hate You. Don’t Leave Me! – Workbook 1—the life-changing, Bible-based weight loss program that is transforming lives worldwide. Get Workbook 1 here.
